Tip #4: Petunias
Petunias remain the undisputed champions of hanging baskets and window boxes. Modern breeding has transformed these classic summer flowers into vigorous, self-cleaning marvels that cascade beautifully over the edges of containers. The sheer volume of flowers a single petunia plant produces from spring until frost is truly staggering.
Because they grow so rapidly and bloom so heavily, petunias require plenty of fuel. You should plant them in rich, loamy potting soil and apply a water-soluble fertilizer every one to two weeks. Without regular feeding, their blooming slows down and their foliage may turn a pale, yellowish green.
During the peak of late summer heat, petunias can sometimes become leggy—producing long, bare stems with flowers only at the very tips. Do not hesitate to give them a severe haircut. Cut the longest stems back by half; within a week or two, the plant will push out fresh, dense growth and a brand-new flush of vibrant blossoms.
